Optimist Park Junior League kicking to new heights
By: Shelia Mader
The Junior League teams have been incredibly busy on the field, with a full week of exciting games!
Close one goes to the Red Storm
Starting the season last Tuesday night, the games were as thrilling as the MLS. The Red Storm and Gunners kicked things off with a well-earned 2-1 win for the Red Storm. Individual stats were not available for this game.
Arsenal defense too much for the Maddogs
Arsenal continued their dominant play, showcasing some incredible teamwork in a 5-0 victory over the Maddogs. The Arsenal offense was unstoppable, led by Elijah Hoover who netted an impressive three goals and even assisted an assist. Caleb Hoover and Nathan Kimbrel each added a goal to the tally.
On the other side of the field, Maddogs' goalie Levin Wright was a true star, making five incredible saves against a tough offensive attack. Both teams played their hearts out, making it a truly remarkable game for everyone involved!
Arsenal records a shutout
The action started Thursday night with Arsenal delivering a strong performance to shut out the Tigers with a final score of 3-0. The team’s defense was truly a force to be reckoned with, as goalie Zeb Kimbrel made three big stops and even denied a penalty kick. On the offensive end, Elijah Hoover found the back of the net twice and Caleb Hoover added another goal. The defensive line of Cassidy Langland, Evangeline Belanger, Florence Balassone, and Rebekah Hoover was stellar, working together to set up an impressive six offsides plays, while Nathan Kimbrel showed his hustle with a whopping twelve steals.
Red Storm wins nailbiter over Maddogs
Following up on that excitement, the Red Storm secured a hard fought 2-1 victory over the Maddogs. For the Maddogs, Jaxon Olvera scored a goal with an assist from Archer Bigelow. Goalie William Oliver was a standout, making six saves, and the defense was a hustling machine with Jed Yoder grabbing four steals and Kayla Hasty, Daniel Martin, and Kassidy Davis each adding more to the effort. The Red Storm showed real grit to come out on top in a close contest.